Lloyd Nattkemper, Monterey

I had written to the Herald about two months ago in regards to a California American water bill that was nearly $3,600. I had only recently moved into a new home, spent nearly $2,000 on repairs for multiple leaks in the outdoor irrigation system, and was being as conservative as possible in my personal water use.

I spoke twice with Cal Am representatives on the phone, explaining the situation and requesting that consideration be made to reduce my bill. I was advised that they would do so, but that it could be a month or two, or even longer, before I would be advised about their decision.

Two weeks ago I received an updated bill from Cal Am. It included charges for several weeks since that original bill. It was for just over $980 - a reduction of over $2,500. I am certain that there was in fact a considerable amount of water waste going on in the first several weeks I owned this property, as irrigation was going on automatically and apparently there were over 100 leaks in the system, some of which were considerable. That is to say, a considerable amount of water waste was occurring.

I feel Cal Am was very fair with me. I'd like to point out that the fee for my water usage over the last 30 day period was about $50.

Several folks have commented that the Herald's attention to this issue probably has had a significant impact/benefit for California American water users. I really appreciate the Herald's support and also Cal Am's consideration.